Phylum Echinodermata Class Asteroidea

Subclass Perischoechinoidea Superorder Echinacea

Order Temnopleuroida Family Toxopneustidae

Lytechinus pictus

Coloration: Test is dark gray, basal half of the spines are usually white, while the distal ends are gray, brown, or red purple.

Type of Urchin: Regular

Defining Characteristics:

Limited to low wave energy The test is thin and delicate

- Spines are short, thick, blunt, and dark in color - Juveniles have a test that is rose colored, purple, or violet

Test diameter can reach 40mm - Young urchins may have banded spines

Illustration